Lisa Bilbrey's Blog, page 82
June 3, 2013
GUEST POST: DREW AVERA
Today I welcome Drew Avera to my blog. I asked him to talk about fear. So, here you go:
Combating Fear in the Self Publishing World
By Drew Avera
Imagine your walking under a skyscraper that is under construction and your spidey sense starts tingling. You look up to find a massive steel beam is swinging hazardously by a single cable. You are mesmerized as you notice the small twists in the cable are breaking like a rope made of paper. Every facet of your mind is focused on the spectacle that is about to happen, even certain death cannot tear you away from that moment of fear induced paralysis. A split second before your flattened like a pancake you are jostled back to the stark reality of what is happening. Move or die! Your mind screams, the adrenaline kicks in and you dive out of the way as the beam lands inches away. You're lucky to be alive! You've found your life and its worth seconds before it was about to end. Today is your day! You own it because fate was on your side, or whatever you choose to believe spared you from doom. It's the ultimate high to live when you should have died.
What is it about narrowly escaping a negative outcome that ushers that feeling of victorious resolution so deep in our souls? I'm not a scientist, so I don't have the answer, but I can tell you that the feeling is addictive. Rock stars call it the pre-show jitters. Athletes call it getting in the zone. What does a writer call it? As far as I know there isn't one single word for it. I call it excitement because if I called it fear then I might not want to press 'publish' ever again.
The truth is that 'excitement' (fear) is a natural part of life. Anytime we have something at stake then it comes flooding into our minds to remind us that we can fail. It's a horrible feeling to know that you are up against such great odds and you're standing alone against the monster known as failure. How do we combat the beast who holds the world as its arsenal? You do so the same way David conquered Goliath, by having a little faith because you can do this!
The first step in success is to have a plan and step two is follow it. It's the same thing every writer who has ever published a book does. They plan their attack, get things in order, and have faith in themselves that they can do it. Faith is the magic ingredient because faith is bigger than fear, you can count the letters and see that.
You're an author and you became one with the first word you wrote to begin your first story. You know the mechanics of what it takes to finish the book so don't let fear get in the way. Failure is only ensured when you fail to try. So crack your knuckles, take a deep breath, and write like your life depended on it. When you know the story is good and you've done everything to ensure you have a quality book readers will love then take the leap of faith and click 'publish'. Don't worry about fear because you still have your spidey sense to alert you of falling steel beams headed your way. I hope this helps. Write on!
*****
Thanks, Drew!!! You can find him at the following links:
Facebook
BlogAmazon
Combating Fear in the Self Publishing World
By Drew Avera
Imagine your walking under a skyscraper that is under construction and your spidey sense starts tingling. You look up to find a massive steel beam is swinging hazardously by a single cable. You are mesmerized as you notice the small twists in the cable are breaking like a rope made of paper. Every facet of your mind is focused on the spectacle that is about to happen, even certain death cannot tear you away from that moment of fear induced paralysis. A split second before your flattened like a pancake you are jostled back to the stark reality of what is happening. Move or die! Your mind screams, the adrenaline kicks in and you dive out of the way as the beam lands inches away. You're lucky to be alive! You've found your life and its worth seconds before it was about to end. Today is your day! You own it because fate was on your side, or whatever you choose to believe spared you from doom. It's the ultimate high to live when you should have died.
What is it about narrowly escaping a negative outcome that ushers that feeling of victorious resolution so deep in our souls? I'm not a scientist, so I don't have the answer, but I can tell you that the feeling is addictive. Rock stars call it the pre-show jitters. Athletes call it getting in the zone. What does a writer call it? As far as I know there isn't one single word for it. I call it excitement because if I called it fear then I might not want to press 'publish' ever again.
The truth is that 'excitement' (fear) is a natural part of life. Anytime we have something at stake then it comes flooding into our minds to remind us that we can fail. It's a horrible feeling to know that you are up against such great odds and you're standing alone against the monster known as failure. How do we combat the beast who holds the world as its arsenal? You do so the same way David conquered Goliath, by having a little faith because you can do this!
The first step in success is to have a plan and step two is follow it. It's the same thing every writer who has ever published a book does. They plan their attack, get things in order, and have faith in themselves that they can do it. Faith is the magic ingredient because faith is bigger than fear, you can count the letters and see that.
You're an author and you became one with the first word you wrote to begin your first story. You know the mechanics of what it takes to finish the book so don't let fear get in the way. Failure is only ensured when you fail to try. So crack your knuckles, take a deep breath, and write like your life depended on it. When you know the story is good and you've done everything to ensure you have a quality book readers will love then take the leap of faith and click 'publish'. Don't worry about fear because you still have your spidey sense to alert you of falling steel beams headed your way. I hope this helps. Write on!
*****
Thanks, Drew!!! You can find him at the following links:BlogAmazon
June 2, 2013
Cover Reveal: Summer Heat, Beach Reads: Vomume 1!
Summer Heat consists of the following Novellas:
In My Mother’s Footsteps by Forbes Arnone
Anela Alborn’s life is a lie. After growing up without the love of a father, her mother reveals his identity. Tragedy strikes and she sets off on an adventure that leads to more than she could ever imagine. Bumping into Christian Sivers distracts her from the real man of her dreams, her father. Will he live up to her dreams? And does she follow in her mother’s footsteps?
Author Bio--
Jennifer Garcia’s (aka Forbes Arnone) love of travel began when she traveled to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family. Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature. She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be published August 2013.
Find Jennifer on: Facebook Goodreads--Forbes Arnone Goodreads--Jennifer Garcia Twitter Blog About.me Authorsdb
Just Like in the Movies by M.B. Feeney
Ava Jones has settled for a life that she’s not sure she wants anymore, but won’t admit it. Her best friend, Erica Davidson talks her into taking a break on the Isle of Wight. Her days on the island are spent thinking things through, and arguing with Morgan whom she hates on principal.
Is it so wrong for her to want a life that follows the script of a honest to God romance film?
Author Bio--
M. B. Feeney is an army brat who finally settled down in Birmingham, UK with her other half, 2 kids and a dog. She's also a student teacher, a doodler and a chocoholic. Writing has been her one true love since she could spell, and publishing is the culmination of her hard work and ambition.
Her Blog Twitter Facebook Amazon B&N
Haunted Raine by R.E. Hargrave
Distracted by the everyday routine of raising children, being a wife, and keeping a home, Lorraine Morrissey let life pass her by. Her wakeup call comes when she realizes that with their children gone, her husband Richard is rarely home, and she’s filling her solitary days with trivial tasks. A crazy idea to save her marriage leads to a summer beach vacation unlike any she’s ever taken; one that involves unknowingly buying a haunted house.
Author Bio--
R.E. Hargrave is a fledgling author who has always been a lover of books and now looks forward to the chance to give something back to the literary community. She lives on the outskirts of Dallas, TX with her husband and three children.
Links:BlogFacebookGoodreadsTwitterAmazonAbout.me Libboo Authorsdb
May 30, 2013
May 18, 2013
The Joureny to Forever!!
Finally back in the warm embrace of his family, Travis McCoy relishes every moment he gets to spend with his wife and son. After almost losing them due to his own selfishness, he makes the decision to never let go of his family again. With his plan set in motion, Travis, Penelope, and Max start a new journey, one that leads them to forever.
GoodreadsFacebookTwitter Blog Amazon Barnes & Noble Renaissance Romance Publishing About.me
April 20, 2013
Breach: An Inside Look at K.I. Lynn!
Today I am blessed and honored to have my good friend, K.I. Lynn on my blog! She's about to release her novel Breach, which is amazing. She and I sat down and had a chat about her book.Me--What inspired you to write Breach?
K.I.--It started out to write a sexy, pushing the envelope, fantasy story with some plot. It turned out much deeper than I ever thought possible.
Me--How do you handle writers block?
K.I.--I go on Amazon and spend hours going through music. I love music, and it is what inspires my imagination and ideas running through my mind. It may take a couple days, but if I just listen and don’t think, it eventually breaks.
Me--Is it hard to balance your writing with your personal life?
K.I.--Not too bad. We don’t have children yet, so I have the time. My husband is supportive, which is huge.Me--Who is your favorite author and why?
K.I.--If you asked me this twenty years ago I would have said R.L. Stein. I loved horror like stories. Since I became an adult I can’t really answer that. There are series from authors I love, but other things they do that don’t interest me at all.
Me--When did you know you wanted to be an author?
K.I.--I’d been writing for years, nothing anyone ever saw. It was about a year ago I decided to give it a try. I didn’t know my passion was writing until about three years ago when I began posting things online.
Me--Who is your favorite character from your book? Why?
K.I.--That’s a hard one, because I love them all and for different reasons. In this book of the trilogy I’d have to say… Nathan. He is such a complex person, but he gets Lila, he sees her. His struggle and his mystery are compelling.
Me--If they made a movie out of Breach, who do you see at the main characters?
K.I.--I went searching for the answer to this, because I hadn’t thought about it. David Gandy for Nathan. He looks just like the picture in my head, I just didn’t know there was a real person that looked that way. If not him than Michael Fassbender. I really like Mia Wasikowska for Delilah, but I can also see Emily Blunt or Lauren Cohan.
Me--Breach was once a Twilight based fan fiction. What was your experience like when transforming it from the fan fiction version to being original? Was it worth it?
K.I.--It was very much worth it. It was a very long process to transform it. The writing needed a lot of work, and aspects of the story were changed, some things taken out. Overall it took a few months, but the final product is so much better than I could have imagined when I started out.
Me--What can we expect next from you? Any more books in progress?
K.I.--I have a short story called Whispers in the Dark due out in May, a novella titled Obsession for late summer, and the second book in the Breach trilogy later this year.
Thank you, K.I. Lynn, and the best of luck on your new release! You can find Breach on Goodreads!
April 1, 2013
Scent of Triumph (Two Giveaway Opportunities)
I'm honored to have Jan Moran on my blog today. Her new release, Scent of Triumph, looks amazing and I can't wait to buy my own copy and read it! Make sure you check out the giveaway at the bottom for the three signed paperbacks and leave a comment with your email address for a chance to win an ebook copy!
Guest Blog Post by Jan Moran
It’s great to be here today with Lisa. I love to chat with readers, and am often asked where authors get their ideas. Aside from the usual place (in the bathtub surrounded by bubbles), I began to think: What inspires creativity?We’ve all read romances that stole our hearts, or thrillers that grabbed us by the throat. The keep-you-up-all-night books that you can’t get out of your mind. Every one of these stories began with the seed of an idea.And every writer has her own method of nurturing creativity. Mine always begin with a question: “What if….” So today I thought I’d share how I channel my muse. Here are a few ways I conjure creativity:
1. Unplugging – If my mind is too cluttered, there’s no room for creative thinking. Unplug from social media, get up from the computer, go for a walk, send calls to voice mail. I enjoy a long walk to delve into ideas, but even a short stroll can clear the mind.
2. Communing with Nature – When I’m really stumped, I turn to Mother Nature by taking a walk, listening to birds, or watching the rhythm of the ocean. Gardening is another passion; ideas often rise to the surface when I’m elbow deep in dirt or pruning roses. The warmth of the sun and the aromas from flowers and plants often leads to inspiration, too.
3. A World of Reading – Reading across a variety of genres stimulates the imagination. News topics might also provide a starting point. In fact, part of the early inspiration for Scent of Triumph came from a newspaper story I’d read about families who were separated during World War II.
4. Art Appreciation – Recharge creative batteries by seeking out other forms of artistic expression. For instance, I love to wander through art galleries, and always feel creatively energized afterward.
5. Get Physical – Physical exercise is excellent for clearing out mental cobwebs. Be sure to do what’s fun. For me, it might be swimming or dancing, biking or snow skiing, or practicing pilates or yoga. Mixing up muscle movement keeps exercise fresh, and improves mental clarity.
6. Nocturnal Thoughts – Inspiration often treads on silent feet in the dark of night. I keep a notepad on my nightstand, and often scribble thoughts that lead to breakthroughs. Or, early in the morning, in that quiet space between sleep and wakefulness when the mind finds dreaming natural, I’ll turn my thoughts to my storyline.
7. Tiny Bubbles – A long soak in a warm tub is a must for my creative muse. Add music, candles, wine—whatever strikes your fancy. Personally, I’m hooked on bubbles—the more the merrier. Bubbles, like snow, muffle the outside world, giving creativity space to grow.
8. Set the Scene – Create an environment conducive to creativity. Pots of tea, instrumental music, pleasing aromas—these are the basic necessities for my writing sessions.
When writing Scent of Triumph, I tried to recreate the period of time covered the book, which is 1939 to 1947. I have a professional background in the fragrance business, so I immersed myself in vintage perfume history, surrounding myself with fragrances that were available during the time period—all from my personal collection. From Shalimar to Mitsouko, Joy to Chanel No. 5, Normandie to Narcisse Noir, these perfumes reflect the artistry of the period, and helped me conjure the mood.Other period research included wartime history, video and audio recordings, fashion, music, and female entrepreneurs. I spoke to people who had lived through the time period. My mother shared memories of daily details of life, such as rationing. Not every fact made it into the book, of course, but the immersion provided inspiration, helping to create an authentic world.What inspires you? What do you do to engage your creativity?
About Scent of Triumph by Jan Moran
Scent of Triumph is the story of Danielle Bretancourt, a talented young French perfumer with a flair for fashion and a natural olfactory gift. In the language of perfumery, she is a Nose, with the rare ability to recognize thousands of essences by memory. The story opens on the day England declares war on Germany, and Danielle and her family are caught in the midst of a raging disaster sweeping across Europe.
Her life takes a tragic turn when her husband and son are lost behind enemy lines. She spies for the French resistance, determined to find them, but is forced to flee Europe with fragments of her family. Destitute, she mines her talents to create a magnificent perfume that captures the hearts of Hollywood's top stars, then gambles again to win wealth and success as a couturier. Her intelligence and flair attracts the adoration of Jonathan Newell-Grey, of England's top shipping conglomerate, and Cameron Murphy, Hollywood's most charismatic star.
Danielle charts her course through devastating wartime losses and revenge; lustful lovers and loveless marriages; and valiant struggles to reunite her family. Set between privileged lifestyles and gritty realities, here is one woman's story of courage, spirit, and resilience.
Author Bio
Jan Moran writes smart, stylish, sensual sagas. She’s also written several books on perfume.
“My most recent book, SCENT OF TRIUMPH, was inspired by my love of perfumery and history. In writing, I drew upon my own family history and my mother's memories of World War II, imagining a young entrepreneur whose talent, determination, and fearlessness catapult her to the pinnacle of success, despite mounting personal tragedies and the elusiveness of love.
“I write about strong, capable, female entrepreneurs. I’m a world traveler, so I also enjoy writing about different destinations.”
Jan Moran is the author of SCENT OF TRIUMPH, a historical novel, and FABULOUS FRAGRANCES I and II, which earned spots on the Rizzoli Bookstore bestseller list. She is at work on more series in fiction and nonfiction.
As a fragrance and beauty expert, she has been featured in numerous publications and on television and radio, including CNN and Extra, Women's Wear Daily, Allure, InStyle, and O Magazine. As an editor and writer, she has covered fragrance, beauty, and spa travel for a variety of publications.
Author Links
WebsiteTwitter
Goodreads
DON'T FORGET TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY!
Three signed paperbacks are up for grabs! U.S. Residents only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tour Dates:
April 1st - Lisa Bilbrey April 3rd - Alexandra ChristianApril 5th - Travis Simmons April 7th - Breath of Life April 8th - Bunny's Review April 9th - The Twigasm April 10th - Susan April 12th - Italian Brat's Obsession April 14th - The Twigasm April 16th - Fandom Fanatic April 17th - Seventh Star PressApril 18th - Lindsey GrayApril 19th - Window on the world April 20th - Bookish Babbles April 21st - Breath of LifeApril 23rd - Selah Janel April 24th - Lorenz Font April 25th - Readers After Dark April 27th - Alexx Mom Cat'sApril 29th - Ali Talks Live April 30th - Ali's Bookshelf
March 26, 2013
Hunted: The Gates Legacy
I am so honored to have Lorenz Font on my blog today. When she presented her novel to us, I was immediately drawn to the world she'd created. However, it wasn't until I had the opportunity to read the final, cleaned up version that I found myself falling in love with a vampire named Harrow Gates. Well-written and emotionally charged, I can't wait for the next book to drop into my hands!Hunted, Book One of The Gates Legacy
Deep in the heart of New York City’s underworld, a horrible disease is ravaging the vampire community. The Vampire Council is on a crusade to obliterate those infected, and Harrow Gates is target Number One. The unwitting source of the plague, he suffers from the same nightmarish symptoms as his victims. The world he'd been thrust into was cold, cruel, and intent on eradicating him, and the legions of afflicted vampires he created with his bite.
A bounty hanging over his head, satisfying his hunger has become an enormous challenge for Harrow. The less he feeds, the more hideous and painful his lesions become. Constantly running for his life and learning new tricks to survive, Harrow is in no position to refuse when Pritchard Tack offers him a unique opportunity. Pritchard not only gives Harrow a new beginning, but also a purpose and a chance to rectify the chaos he created in the vampire world. However, the multi-billionaire has an agenda of his own.
Jordan is a reluctant new vampire and a woman on a mission. After the demise of her family and her own transformation at the hands of Goran, the ruthless leader of the Vampire Council, her only focus is revenge. Constantly faced with one frustrating dead-end after another, a stroke of luck leads her to an underground facility that she suspects is the lair of the monster for whom she is looking.
Upon learning more about the truth behind the secret bunker, Jordan must fight against her growing feelings of friendship and concern for the facility’s inhabitants. One man in particular threatens to pull her heart away from her sworn mission. There is something behind Harrow’s dark lenses that unsettles the hardened female. Once again, she trembles and hungers for something other than red-stained revenge. Is love strong enough to override her hate-fueled thirst for vengeance?
Excerpt from Hunted:
“There really isn’t a second scenario, we’re dead set and conceptually right about the first one.” Pritchard chuckled. Harrow hissed under his breath, unable to control his hunger any longer. “You need to feed. I know Tor rudely interrupted your dinner. Intel confirms that needle in your pocket, meant you’re not advocating the spread of the disease, am I right?”Harrow shuddered before nodding. His could feel his strength fading and there wasn’t a damn thing he could do about it. This human, in all of his infinite wisdom, should give him his neck and be done with.“I know what you’re thinking Harrow,” Pritchard laughed without humor. “I’m not the enemy here, or your dinner. I will take you to a cell for now, where you will be fed donated blood until we find a cure for that ailment. Neither of you are prisoners here, but until we are certain that you’re not a threat to us humans, you will not be allowed to move around freely.”Pritchard rose to his feet. “Follow me,” he told Harrow.“What about these damn cuffs on our leg, we’re not animals you know.” Tor said and his voice thundered through the room. He was already up on his feet and facing off with Lambert, who was sporting a push dagger, notably of Dangeran material. “They are trackers, in case you are out there,” Lambert motioned with his hand. “We will know how to find you.”“Just like we’re dogs, right?” Tor said distastefully.“Yes, but very special dogs,” Lambert said, taunting as he grabbed Tor’s elbow and shoved him forward to follow Pritchard and Harrow. They were already walking down the long corridor that eventually led them to a windowless suite. The furnishings were top-rated, lavish to be exact. There were two king-sized beds, a state of the art sound system sitting next to a giant television, expensive looking art adorned the wall, and plush carpeting to boot.
Another Excerpt:
The loneliness gnawed at him hard. He had gone to visit his family several times over the course of the following years and had witnessed firsthand the sorrow in their faces when they thought they’d lost him. He watched his parents from the shadows and saw their hearts were broken, not knowing what had become of their son. Eventually, they passed away, and Harrow felt loneliness like a knife speared permanently in his heart.He was indeed a freak, as he’d been branded by Tor, but not for the reason Tor had concluded. Harrow was a vampire with a conscience, a disease, and a shaky future ahead of him. He was fucked — as fucked as he could get.
Author Bio:
Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. Hunted, the first book of The Gates Legacy trilogy, is her debut novel. Written in forty-five days, the grueling writing schedule was a personal challenge, even though she thought it was madness at first. She enjoys dabbling in different genres with an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
She currently lives in California with her husband, children, and two demanding dogs. Lorenz spends most of her free time writing while also working as a Business Office Manager for a skilled-rehabilitation hospital.
Lorenz's Blog AmazonBarnes & Noble iTunesGoodreads
March 19, 2013
Nate Rocks the School
Summary: Nate Rocks the School
Nate Rocks Is At It Again . . .
According to Nathan Rockledge, fifth grade has plenty of perks. Oh sure, there’s more work and that know-it-all, Lisa Crane, is still around – but, there’s a lot to look forward to as well: a laser tag birthday party, baseball at recess, and even a cool Halloween dance. Of course, all of that means nothing without the biggest perk of all . . . the class trip to New York City in the spring. If Nathan’s class can raise enough money to go, that is.
Give Nathan paper and a pencil and watch as his imagination turns him into Nate Rocks, hero and fifth grade super star. With adventures abound, Nate saves the day time and again. But will Nate be able to save the fifth grade trip?
Join Nathan, his hilarious family, and his friends, as he rocks the school in another fun Nate Rocks adventure.
My Review of Nate:
When I first got this book ARC for the tour, I thought to myself, "Oh, this will be a fun, quick read." And it was, but it was more than that, too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the characters that Karen Pokras Toz created. Nate was believable and true to kids age. But while I enjoyed it, I wanted to get the kids perspective on the book. Since I have two avid readers of my own, I loaded the book onto my kindle and passed it on to my thirteen year old son, Alex, and my ten year old daughter, Sophie. Now, both of these kids are fairly picky about the books they will read and often complain that the ones they get from school are boring.
They didn't do that with Nate Rocks the School.
In fact, they both begged for more. In fact, Alex's favorite books are the Diary of a Whimpy Kid Books and he told me that Nate rates right up there with Greg Heffley. So needless to say, I highly encourage everyone to read these books, and encourage their children to, as well.
An amazing book, by an amazing author. I look forward to her future works.
Author Bio:
Karen Pokras Toz lives outside of Philadelphia with her husband and three children. Karen’s middle grade childrens’ novels: Millicent Marie Is Not My Name and the Nate Rocks series, have won several awards including First Place for Children’s Chapter Books and the Grand Prize Overall in the 2012 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards, as well as placing first for a Global E-Book Award for Pre-Teen Literature. Karen is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). Her first adult contemporary novel, invisible, will be released this summer. For more information, please visit www.karentoz.com.
Links
Website: www.karentoz.com
Blog: http://kptoz.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/karenptoz
Twitter: www.twitter.com/karentoz
Amazon: http://bit.ly/NRTSamazon
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/NRSchoolBN
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Tour Schedule:
March 20 Fairday's Blog! http://thesecretdmsfilesoffairdaymorr... Review
March 21 Lissette E. Manning http://www.simplistik.org/lissetteema... Review, Author Guest Post, & Giveaway
March 22
The Children's and Teens' Book Connection Review, Character Guest Post, & Giveaway
Mom Does Reviews http://www.momdoesreviews.com Review, Character Interview, & Giveaway
March 23 My Devotional Thoughts http://mydevotionalthoughts.com Character Guest Post & Giveaway
March 24
Diary of a Semi-Crazy Author http://diaryofasemi-crazyauthor.blogs... Review
Lindsay & Jane's Views and Reviews http://lindsayandjaneviewsandreviews.... Character Interview & Review
Nate Rocks Is At It Again . . .
According to Nathan Rockledge, fifth grade has plenty of perks. Oh sure, there’s more work and that know-it-all, Lisa Crane, is still around – but, there’s a lot to look forward to as well: a laser tag birthday party, baseball at recess, and even a cool Halloween dance. Of course, all of that means nothing without the biggest perk of all . . . the class trip to New York City in the spring. If Nathan’s class can raise enough money to go, that is.
Give Nathan paper and a pencil and watch as his imagination turns him into Nate Rocks, hero and fifth grade super star. With adventures abound, Nate saves the day time and again. But will Nate be able to save the fifth grade trip?
Join Nathan, his hilarious family, and his friends, as he rocks the school in another fun Nate Rocks adventure.
My Review of Nate:
When I first got this book ARC for the tour, I thought to myself, "Oh, this will be a fun, quick read." And it was, but it was more than that, too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the characters that Karen Pokras Toz created. Nate was believable and true to kids age. But while I enjoyed it, I wanted to get the kids perspective on the book. Since I have two avid readers of my own, I loaded the book onto my kindle and passed it on to my thirteen year old son, Alex, and my ten year old daughter, Sophie. Now, both of these kids are fairly picky about the books they will read and often complain that the ones they get from school are boring.
They didn't do that with Nate Rocks the School.
In fact, they both begged for more. In fact, Alex's favorite books are the Diary of a Whimpy Kid Books and he told me that Nate rates right up there with Greg Heffley. So needless to say, I highly encourage everyone to read these books, and encourage their children to, as well.
An amazing book, by an amazing author. I look forward to her future works.
Author Bio:
Karen Pokras Toz lives outside of Philadelphia with her husband and three children. Karen’s middle grade childrens’ novels: Millicent Marie Is Not My Name and the Nate Rocks series, have won several awards including First Place for Children’s Chapter Books and the Grand Prize Overall in the 2012 Purple Dragonfly Book Awards, as well as placing first for a Global E-Book Award for Pre-Teen Literature. Karen is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers & Illustrators (SCBWI). Her first adult contemporary novel, invisible, will be released this summer. For more information, please visit www.karentoz.com.
Links
Website: www.karentoz.com
Blog: http://kptoz.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/karenptoz
Twitter: www.twitter.com/karentoz
Amazon: http://bit.ly/NRTSamazon
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/NRSchoolBN
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Tour Schedule:
March 20 Fairday's Blog! http://thesecretdmsfilesoffairdaymorr... Review
March 21 Lissette E. Manning http://www.simplistik.org/lissetteema... Review, Author Guest Post, & Giveaway
March 22
The Children's and Teens' Book Connection Review, Character Guest Post, & Giveaway
Mom Does Reviews http://www.momdoesreviews.com Review, Character Interview, & Giveaway
March 23 My Devotional Thoughts http://mydevotionalthoughts.com Character Guest Post & Giveaway
March 24
Diary of a Semi-Crazy Author http://diaryofasemi-crazyauthor.blogs... Review
Lindsay & Jane's Views and Reviews http://lindsayandjaneviewsandreviews.... Character Interview & Review
March 13, 2013
Sydney Logan and Lessons Learned
I am so excited to have Sydney Logan here today. Her book, Lessons Learned, is amazing and a must read for everyone.
Lessons Learned Blurb:
Selected as the Best Romance Read of 2012 by Nose in a Book ReviewsBlogger Book Fair Reader’s Choice Awards – Romance & New Adult Categories
A young girl needs to spread her wings, but a young woman needs roots.
English teacher Sarah Bray never thought she’d return to Sycamore Falls, but a traumatic event at her inner-city school leaves her desperate for the sanctuary of home. By returning to her roots, an older and wiser Sarah hopes to deal with the demons of her present and confront the ghosts of her past.
She discovers a kindred spirit in Lucas Miller, a teacher from New York with demons of his own. As the newest faculty members at Sycamore High School, they quickly become friends – bonding through Lucas’s culture shock and their mutual desire to build new lives. When they open their wounded hearts to each other, their friendship effortlessly evolves into romance.
Their love is put to the test when Matt, the quarterback of the football team, shares his deepest secret with Sarah. When the conservative community finds out, Sarah and Lucas – along with the town of Sycamore Falls – are schooled in the lessons of acceptance, tolerance, and love.
Lessons Learned Excerpt:
Prologue
Voices roar through the high school cafeteria while students navigate their way to the tables. The cliques are easily spotted: the jocks, the geeks, the beauty queens, the slackers.
Where will he sit today?
Despite the fact he’s a handsome and impeccably dressed young man, he fades into the background. Knowing it’s pointless, the girls don’t bother to look his way, and the guys deliberately avoid his eyes.
He grips his tray tightly and heads toward the corner table with the rest of the outcasts. They nod hello, but that’s the end of any real attempt at conversation. It’s an unspoken rule of sorts. This is their refuge—a tiny bit of sanctuary in the hell that is public high school—and they’re content to sit in peace.
He takes a seat, and I can see the exhaustion on his face. It’s not a weariness that comes from too many sleepless nights. This is a bone-tired fatigue no seventeen-year-old kid should ever feel.
He’s giving in.
Giving up.
In my peripheral vision, I see a senior stalk into the cafeteria. He’s tall, with deep brown eyes and jet-black hair that won’t stay in place. He’s good looking, popular, and a little conceited, thanks to his father’s wealth and status.
He has a reputation to uphold.
Rumors to squash.
A score to settle.
He pulls the silver gun out of his jacket pocket. Amid the chaos, no one notices.
I notice.
I try to run, but I’m frozen in place.
I try to scream, but there’s no sound.
The first shot rings out, and suddenly, everyone’s on the cold tile.
Tears, prayers, screams.
Another shot, and for some reason, I’m the only one who can’t move. Who can’t scream. Who can’t do anything but watch as the young man’s body slumps over his tray.
Finally, I find my voice and scream his name.
Sydney Logan Author Info and Links
Bio:
Sydney Logan holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and makes her home in the hills of East Tennessee. With the 2012 release of her first novel, Lessons Learned, she made the transition from bookworm to author. She has a very unhealthy obsession with music, and her iPod is filled with everything from Johnny Cash to Eminem. When she isn't reading or writing, she enjoys playing piano and relaxing on her front porch with her wonderful husband and their very spoiled cat. Please visit her official website at www.sydneylogan.com.
· Website & Blog: http://www.sydneylogan.com
· Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SydneyLoganAuthor
· Twitter: @SydneyALogan
· Purchasing Links:
http://www.sydneylogan.com/2012/11/purchasing-links.html
Thank you, Sydney, for stopping by!
Lessons Learned Blurb:
Selected as the Best Romance Read of 2012 by Nose in a Book ReviewsBlogger Book Fair Reader’s Choice Awards – Romance & New Adult Categories
A young girl needs to spread her wings, but a young woman needs roots.
English teacher Sarah Bray never thought she’d return to Sycamore Falls, but a traumatic event at her inner-city school leaves her desperate for the sanctuary of home. By returning to her roots, an older and wiser Sarah hopes to deal with the demons of her present and confront the ghosts of her past.
She discovers a kindred spirit in Lucas Miller, a teacher from New York with demons of his own. As the newest faculty members at Sycamore High School, they quickly become friends – bonding through Lucas’s culture shock and their mutual desire to build new lives. When they open their wounded hearts to each other, their friendship effortlessly evolves into romance.
Their love is put to the test when Matt, the quarterback of the football team, shares his deepest secret with Sarah. When the conservative community finds out, Sarah and Lucas – along with the town of Sycamore Falls – are schooled in the lessons of acceptance, tolerance, and love.
Lessons Learned Excerpt:
Prologue
Voices roar through the high school cafeteria while students navigate their way to the tables. The cliques are easily spotted: the jocks, the geeks, the beauty queens, the slackers.
Where will he sit today?
Despite the fact he’s a handsome and impeccably dressed young man, he fades into the background. Knowing it’s pointless, the girls don’t bother to look his way, and the guys deliberately avoid his eyes.
He grips his tray tightly and heads toward the corner table with the rest of the outcasts. They nod hello, but that’s the end of any real attempt at conversation. It’s an unspoken rule of sorts. This is their refuge—a tiny bit of sanctuary in the hell that is public high school—and they’re content to sit in peace.
He takes a seat, and I can see the exhaustion on his face. It’s not a weariness that comes from too many sleepless nights. This is a bone-tired fatigue no seventeen-year-old kid should ever feel.
He’s giving in.
Giving up.
In my peripheral vision, I see a senior stalk into the cafeteria. He’s tall, with deep brown eyes and jet-black hair that won’t stay in place. He’s good looking, popular, and a little conceited, thanks to his father’s wealth and status.
He has a reputation to uphold.
Rumors to squash.
A score to settle.
He pulls the silver gun out of his jacket pocket. Amid the chaos, no one notices.
I notice.
I try to run, but I’m frozen in place.
I try to scream, but there’s no sound.
The first shot rings out, and suddenly, everyone’s on the cold tile.
Tears, prayers, screams.
Another shot, and for some reason, I’m the only one who can’t move. Who can’t scream. Who can’t do anything but watch as the young man’s body slumps over his tray.
Finally, I find my voice and scream his name.
Sydney Logan Author Info and Links
Bio:
Sydney Logan holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education and makes her home in the hills of East Tennessee. With the 2012 release of her first novel, Lessons Learned, she made the transition from bookworm to author. She has a very unhealthy obsession with music, and her iPod is filled with everything from Johnny Cash to Eminem. When she isn't reading or writing, she enjoys playing piano and relaxing on her front porch with her wonderful husband and their very spoiled cat. Please visit her official website at www.sydneylogan.com.
· Website & Blog: http://www.sydneylogan.com
· Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SydneyLoganAuthor
· Twitter: @SydneyALogan
· Purchasing Links:
http://www.sydneylogan.com/2012/11/purchasing-links.html
Thank you, Sydney, for stopping by!
March 8, 2013
The Journey of Champions!
Back over the summer, I wrote a novella as part of Harvest Treats, the Third Book of the Candy Collection. The two main characters, Travis and Penelope, found a place inside of my heart and I found it difficult to let them go. When I decided to participate in Nation Novel Writing Month in November, I made the decision to carry on with their story, or moreover, fill in some of the gaps between chapter ten of The Journey Home and the Epilogue. From there, the journey didn't stop. It refused to. So, now, I'm thrilled to present the cover and blurb for The Journey of Champions, the second book of The Journey Collection!
To Be Released on April 9th!!
The Journey of Champions Travis McCoy thought the journey home would be the hardest choice he ever had to make. It isn’t until he finds himself walking out the door and leaving his family behind that he realizes his journey is only just beginning. Now, with only a handful of weeks until Christmas, Travis tries to find his way back home. This time, he plans on staying forever.
Lisa Bilbrey is a mom of three and has been married to her high school sweetheart since 1996.
Finding a love in the written word, she started writing as a way to express herself. From the first word she wrote, she'd found her heart and soul. Always willing to learn, she's spends much of her time trying to improve as a storyteller.
In late 2011, Lisa opened Renaissance Romance Publishing with Michele Richard and Laura Braley.
Links—
GoodreadsFacebookTwitter Blog Amazon Barnes & Noble Renaissance Romance Publishing
To Be Released on April 9th!!
The Journey of Champions Travis McCoy thought the journey home would be the hardest choice he ever had to make. It isn’t until he finds himself walking out the door and leaving his family behind that he realizes his journey is only just beginning. Now, with only a handful of weeks until Christmas, Travis tries to find his way back home. This time, he plans on staying forever.
Lisa Bilbrey is a mom of three and has been married to her high school sweetheart since 1996.
Finding a love in the written word, she started writing as a way to express herself. From the first word she wrote, she'd found her heart and soul. Always willing to learn, she's spends much of her time trying to improve as a storyteller.
In late 2011, Lisa opened Renaissance Romance Publishing with Michele Richard and Laura Braley.
Links—
GoodreadsFacebookTwitter Blog Amazon Barnes & Noble Renaissance Romance Publishing
